2000 Nissan Altima

The 2000 Nissan Altima was a popular sedan known for its reliability and affordability. Two engines were available: a 2.4L inline-4 producing 150 horsepower and 154 lb-ft of torque, and a 3.5L V6 generating 240 horsepower and 246 lb-ft of torque. Both engines were available with either a 5-speed manual or a 4-speed automatic transmission. Owners often praise the Altima’s comfortable ride and decent fuel economy, but common complaints include electrical issues and some component failures due to age.

Engine

2.4L Inline-4 (KA24DE)

• Oil Leaks
  • Description/Symptoms: Oil leaks, often originating from the valve cover gasket or rear main seal. Visible oil spots under the car, burning oil smell, and low oil level.
  • Solution: Replace the valve cover gasket or rear main seal.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $50 - $150+ (valve cover gasket), $300 - $700+ (rear main seal)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Distributor Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Engine misfires, rough idling, stalling, or complete engine failure.
  • Solution: Replace the distributor.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+
  • Recalls: None Found

3.5L V6 (VQ35DE)

No Issues Found

Transmission

4-Speed Automatic Transmission

• Shift Problems
  • Description/Symptoms: Harsh or delayed shifting, slipping between gears, or failure to shift into certain gears. Can be caused by a failing transmission solenoid.
  • Solution: Replace faulty solenoids or rebuild the transmission.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $500+ (solenoids), $1500 - $3000+ (rebuild)
  • Recalls: None Found

Suspension

• Strut Mount Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Clunking or rattling noises from the suspension, especially when going over bumps. Worn or cracked strut mounts.
  • Solution: Replace the strut mounts.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $400+ (per pair)
  • Recalls: None Found

Electrical

• Alternator Failure
  • Description/Symptoms: Dimming headlights, slow engine cranking, dead battery, or battery light illumination.
  • Solution: Replace the alternator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $300 - $500+
  • Recalls: None Found
• Power Window Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: Power windows failing to operate, or operating intermittently. Often due to a faulty window motor or regulator.
  • Solution: Replace the window motor or regulator.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $150 - $350+ (per window)
  • Recalls: None Found
• Check Engine Light Issues
  • Description/Symptoms: The Check Engine Light will appear in the instrument cluster
  • Solution: Scan the error codes to fix the issue
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $100+
  • Recalls: None Found

Exterior

• Rust
  • Description/Symptoms: Rust formation, particularly on the rocker panels, wheel wells, and undercarriage.
  • Solution: Rust repair or panel replacement.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $1000+ (depending on severity)
  • Recalls: None Found

Interior

• Dashboard Cracks
  • Description/Symptoms: Cracks in the dashboard surface due to sun exposure and age.
  • Solution: Replace the dashboard or use a dashboard cover.
  • Estimated Cost to Fix: $200 - $800+ (replacement), $20 - $100+ (cover)
  • Recalls: None Found

Summary:

The 2000 Nissan Altima, while generally reliable, can suffer from age-related issues. Engine issues like oil leaks are common, particularly in the 2.4L engine. Transmission problems, especially with the automatic transmission, are also reported. Electrical faults, such as alternator and power window failures, are frequent. Rust is a concern in certain climates. Repair costs can range from minor gasket replacements to more substantial transmission rebuilds, making preventative maintenance crucial for this vehicle.